Vince Lombardi's Grandson Joe Hired as Lions Offensive Coordinator

The Lombardi family is steeped in NFL coaching tradition stemming from Vince Lombardi's six NFL titles and two Super Bowl championships. The legacy will continue as his grandson, Joe Lombardi, has been hired as the Detroit Lions' offensive coordinator, the team confirmed, per Josh Katzenstein of The Detroit News:

Lions confirm Joe Lombardi is the new offensive coordinator through team's official reporter.

Lombardi was also an offensive assistant with the Saints from 2007 through 2008, and he was a defensive assistant with the Atlanta Falcons in 2006 after four years at Mercyhurst College, so Lombardi comes to Detroit with a diverse resume.

Some might argue that the success of the Saints offense over the past several years is a direct result of quarterback Drew Brees' play as well as Sean Payton's coaching, but Lombardi's involvement is something worth considering too.

Prior to choosing Lombardi as his offensive coordinator, Caldwell talked about the importance of finding a strong and reliable leader at that position, according to Tim Twentyman of DetroitLions.com:

One of the things we're just trying to make certain we have a guy who has a real good sense of system just in terms of offensive football and the installation and application of it. That he's a good communicator—that's extremely important—and that he's real good just in terms of teaching fundamentals.

Is this a good hiring for the Lions?

Yes, Lombardi is a hidden gem who will help the offense immensely.No, the Lombardi name alone won't be enough for him to succeed as a coordinator.Submit Votevote to see results

Is this a good hiring for the Lions?

Yes, Lombardi is a hidden gem who will help the offense immensely.

85.7%

No, the Lombardi name alone won't be enough for him to succeed as a coordinator.

14.3%

Total votes: 3,165

It remains to be seen if Lombardi truly fits the bill, but his pedigree is obviously encouraging. The name of Lombardi's grandfather graces the trophy that all NFL teams hope to hoist at the end of each season, and the Lions clearly hope Lombardi's grandson will hold it sooner rather than later.

The fact that Lombardi will coach for the Lions after his grandfather led the rival Green Bay Packers for so many years seems ironic, but it should make for a great story provided Joe finds success in Detroit.

With Matthew Stafford under center, Reggie Bush in the backfield and Calvin Johnson making life miserable for opposing secondaries, Lombardi has all the tools necessary to look like a genius as the Lions' offensive coordinator.

If Lombardi inherited even the slightest bit of coaching ability from his legendary grandfather, then the Lions may have found a diamond in the rough.